There are certain dishes that evoke the feeling of warmth even before the first bite. Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is exactly that kind of recipe. It’s the type of dish that calls you back to the kitchen for seconds, that makes your home smell like a hug, and that has the uncanny ability to turn an ordinary weekday evening into something a little more special
This recipe holds a nostalgic charm for many. I first discovered it on a particularly cold winter evening when the wind howled through the windows and comfort food wasn’t just wanted—it was needed. I had some chicken tenders in the fridge, a bit of leftover Parmesan, and rice in the pantry. The inspiration was simple, but what came out of that skillet became a household favorite. Since then, it’s been part of birthday dinners, Sunday suppers, and even the occasional potluck where it always vanishes before anything else.
What I love most about Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is how it brings together rustic simplicity and gourmet flavor. Each bite is layered with garlicky butter, creamy rice, and perfectly seared chicken. And let’s be honest—anything that cooks in one pan, leaves the family full, and has easy cleanup is always going to be a winner in my book.
Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or just for yourself, this dish delivers that homestyle magic that only true comfort food can.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
One Pan, All the Flavor: Fewer dishes, more time to enjoy your evening.
Creamy, Cheesy Goodness: The Parmesan and butter meld perfectly into the rice.
Family Approved: Kids, picky eaters, and even teens ask for seconds.
Versatile and Forgiving: Add veggies, adjust the spice, or substitute proteins—this dish is incredibly flexible.
Weeknight Friendly: Quick enough for a Tuesday night but tasty enough for Sunday dinner.
Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Description
There are certain dishes that evoke the feeling of warmth even before the first bite. Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is exactly that kind of recipe. It’s the type of dish that calls you back to the kitchen for seconds, that makes your home smell like a hug, and that has the uncanny ability to turn an ordinary weekday evening into something a little more special.
This recipe holds a nostalgic charm for many. I first discovered it on a particularly cold winter evening when the wind howled through the windows and comfort food wasn’t just wanted—it was needed. I had some chicken tenders in the fridge, a bit of leftover Parmesan, and rice in the pantry. The inspiration was simple, but what came out of that skillet became a household favorite. Since then, it’s been part of birthday dinners, Sunday suppers, and even the occasional potluck where it always vanishes before anything else.
What I love most about Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is how it brings together rustic simplicity and gourmet flavor. Each bite is layered with garlicky butter, creamy rice, and perfectly seared chicken. And let’s be honest—anything that cooks in one pan, leaves the family full, and has easy cleanup is always going to be a winner in my book.
Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or just for yourself, this dish delivers that homestyle magic that only true comfort food can.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken tenders
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
2 tablespoons minced garlic
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1 ½ cups white rice, uncooked
3 cups chicken broth
½ cup grated or shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Season the chicken tenders generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
2. Let the Garlic Butter Work Its Magic
Without cleaning the pan, melt butter directly into the drippings. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. The moment that garlic hits the butter, your kitchen will start to smell like heaven. Cook gently for about 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Toast the Rice for Depth of Flavor
Add uncooked white rice straight into the garlicky butter mixture. Stir well to coat every grain in buttery goodness. Toast the rice for 2–3 minutes until it turns slightly golden.
4. Simmer to Creamy Perfection
Pour in the chicken broth and the remaining salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat, cover the pan, and simmer for 18–20 minutes. Stir once or twice during cooking to prevent sticking. The rice should be soft, creamy, and slightly saucy.
5. Bring It All Together
Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir to melt. Nestle the cooked chicken tenders back into the pan on top of the rice. Cover and let everything rest for 5 minutes so the flavors can meld and the chicken stays warm.
6. Serve and Savor
Drizzle with a bit of extra butter or sprinkle more Parmesan if desired. Plate it up and watch it disappear.
Notes
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No Wine? No Problem: This recipe doesn’t call for wine, making it family-friendly.
-
Substitutes Welcome: Chicken thighs, lamb strips, or even turkey ham can be swapped in.
-
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
1 lb chicken tenders
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
2 tablespoons minced garlic
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1 ½ cups white rice, uncooked
3 cups chicken broth
½ cup grated or shredded Parmesan cheese
HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN WITH GARLIC PARMESAN RICE
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Season the chicken tenders generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
2. Let the Garlic Butter Work Its Magic
Without cleaning the pan, melt butter directly into the drippings. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. The moment that garlic hits the butter, your kitchen will start to smell like heaven. Cook gently for about 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Toast the Rice for Depth of Flavor
Add uncooked white rice straight into the garlicky butter mixture. Stir well to coat every grain in buttery goodness. Toast the rice for 2–3 minutes until it turns slightly golden.
4. Simmer to Creamy Perfection
Pour in the chicken broth and the remaining salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat, cover the pan, and simmer for 18–20 minutes. Stir once or twice during cooking to prevent sticking. The rice should be soft, creamy, and slightly saucy.
5. Bring It All Together
Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir to melt. Nestle the cooked chicken tenders back into the pan on top of the rice. Cover and let everything rest for 5 minutes so the flavors can meld and the chicken stays warm.
6. Serve and Savor
Drizzle with a bit of extra butter or sprinkle more Parmesan if desired. Plate it up and watch it disappear.
HELPFUL TIPS
Choose Long-Grain White Rice for the best texture—short-grain may become too sticky.
Fresh Parmesan brings better flavor and melts more smoothly than the pre-grated kind.
Don’t Skip Toasting the Rice—this step adds a toasty, nutty layer of flavor.
Spice It Up or Down: Adjust red pepper flakes to your preference, or leave them out for kids.
Add Color: Stir in spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers at the end for an extra nutrient boost.
DETAILS:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Nut-Free
NOTES:
No Wine? No Problem: This recipe doesn’t call for wine, making it family-friendly.
Substitutes Welcome: Chicken thighs, lamb strips, or even turkey ham can be swapped in.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:
Per Serving (approximate)
Calories: 725
Fat: 36g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 140mg
Sodium: 1620mg
Fiber: 1g
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are excellent alternatives with similar salty, sharp flavors.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use a larger skillet or Dutch oven and extend the cooking time for the rice slightly.
What kind of chicken works best?
Chicken tenders are ideal, but boneless chicken thighs or sliced chicken breasts work just as well.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet with a splash of broth to revive the creaminess or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between.
RELATED RECIPES
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Thighs
Irresistible Korean Popcorn Chicken
Better-Than-Takeout Bourbon Chicken (Without Alcohol!)
CONCLUSION
Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice isn’t just dinner—it’s a feeling. A cozy, creamy, garlicky bite of home. Whether you’re making it on a busy weeknight or sharing it with friends over a weekend meal, it’s guaranteed to win hearts and fill bellies. Try it once, and you’ll understand why this one-pan wonder is a forever favorite in so many kitchens.